~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ Overview ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
Surprisingly, the majority of the team returns in 2013 relatively intact. McKenzie will only make drastic cuts when absolutely necessary, choosing to restructure contracts until they expire and allowing draft picks to eventually develop into starters. Once again the Raiders will be thrifty shoppers in FA and draft conservatively.

As the offense has made the transition back to the PBS the unit gelled. The FO will want to build on its strong finish to the 2012 season by continuing to build around Palmer, much to the chagrin of Palmers detractors. Palmer has recently found chemistry with Knapp by deploying the no-huddle offense he runs at a high level.

Unsigned/Cuts
 OG Cooper Carlisle  if he isnt cut hes a good candidate to retire.
 SS Mike Mitchell  The Raiders can get similar production from a rookie
 RB Taiwan Jones  You cant make the team in the ice tub.
 OLB Phillip Wheeler  Imvho, Wheeler will sign elsewhere for slightly more money. However, his production is easily replaced.
 QB Terrelle Pryor  An intriguing prospect that is a difficult cut on the last day.
 P Shane Lechler * - The King era begins.
 TE Richard Gordon  There are simply too many one dimensional TEs on the roster.
 OG Lucas Nix  The staff loves Nix but they are loaded at RG.
 CB/ST Coye Francies
*  2014 Compensation pick

Free Agency
 SD NT Aubrayo Franklin 61 317lbs (33 )
Many will want to address the NT position through the draft. Heres the problem, very few rookies (and even less so in the 2013 draft) are day one ready to physically handle the position. What the Raiders need specifically are a couple value-based two down FAs to rotate in as run stuffing specialists while Bilukidi continues to gain strength and technique. Acquiring Franklin is a significant step towards addressing the defenses most glaring problem with one value signing, run defense. Franklin will add depth at NT behind Kelly in obvious running situations. The past few seasons Franklin has been playing on consecutive 1-year contracts despite being an adept run-stopper. Next season will be no different as Franklin will probably find the market for his services once again lean.

ProFootballWeekly.com on Aubrayo Franklin wrote:

One of the many free-agent acquisitions the Chargers made this offseason, and one of the last, NT Aubrayo Franklin, has helped the run defense, and his play is one of the reasons we havent seen veteran Antonio Garay.
Were told the Chargers love what Franklin brings to the run defense. Hes such a heavy veteran nose guard who knows how to play the game and understands the run game, defensive coordinator John Pagano told reporters last week. He helps the other guys around him. Hes seen just about every run and hes gone against just about every lineman and center in the league, so its good having him in there at that matchup. Franklin has seven tackles and has started all four games. LINK

NFL Draft
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ Overview ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
Admittedly, you will not like this mock draft. The reason why is because it does not project drafting the QBotF or an edge rusher, both strong fan desires. Rather than reach on a QB or edge rusher with red flags or question marks, McKenzie will play the draft conservatively and in accordance with value (If the Raiders had a second they would be much more likely to draft an edge rusher). The Raiders are attempting to rebuild while still remaining competitive and are taking a long term approach to the draft. With Houstons contract expiring in 2014 expect DE to be a premium in 2013.

The Skinny: The AFC West and its conference is considered to be weak, there is an opportunity for the Raiders to build for both the short and long term by continuing to solidify the foundation of the team in the trenches. While Lewan has jumped to the top of many OT rankings keep in mind that Lewans specialization is zone blocking and the Raiders very well could be highest drafting zone blocking team in need of an OT (Lewan would be a bit of a project in a PBS as he would necessarily need to bulk up). Imvho, McKenzie will play the 2013 draft conservatively and draft either Taylor or Luke Joeckel, whichever one is available when the Raiders are on the board.

Palmer will look sharp enough in 2012 that rather than draft the QBoTF the Raiders will opt instead to continue to surround the veteran with assets. Veldheer is a solid OT however if he does not reduce the 11 penalties (T-3rd) he incurred in 2011 and improve against inside rushers (46% of his allowed pressures came inside far above the league average of 32% LINK) he could be pushed to the right in an effort to get the best 5 offensive linemen on the field.

Stock Analysis:Holding
Lewan Taylor is having back to back solid seasons highlighted by shutting down MSUs Gholston. His stock has been holding steady in the middle of the 1st. Thankfully, finishing strong will take the Raiders out of the controversial QB sweepstakes.

The Skinny:Gabe Jackson is considered the second best ZBS LG in the draft after Dallas Thomas. While the Raiders specifically drafted Bergstorm to shore up the LG position he has yet to show he is comfortable switching from the right and was unable to beat out journeyman OG Carlisle. Whether Bergstrom is able to beat out rookie Jackson or not the overall depth along the interior of the OL will be improved with this draft selection. As Jackson matures and gains strength he could become more aggressive forming a formidable combination of talent and nastiness. Ive bumped Jackson up in draft stock because Jackson MUST be a Raider!

Stock Analysis: Rising
Jackson has the natural agility and flexibility that the NFL will find intriguing especially in a man his size. The reason Jackson is graded lower than his abilities may indicate is that his play lacks explosion and violence. As a finesse player Jackson is best suited in a ZBS. Ive watched tons of film of Jackson who is quite adept at pulling and cut blocking.

The Skinny:TE run blocking is a glaring weakness for the Raiders. Knapps system requires a blocking TE. Meyers is serviceable in many areas albeit not a great blocker, Gordon is little more than a blocking TE and Ausberry is still learning the position. Expect the Raiders to explore adding a more complete TE to add to the mix next season as they interviewed a number of TE prospects in 2012 but did not address the position and TE blocking has become a serious concern to the effectiveness of the running game.

Stock Analysis: Holding
Fauria is one of my favorite TEs in the draft. However, on many boards his stock has risen out of the Raiders price range and blocking is not Faurias forte. Iowa is well known for producing pro-style TEs and CJ Feidorowicz is an imposing figure in that mold at 67 265lbs. While he has CJ has struggled with the dropsies I believe he can improve on his hands but his blocking, speed and athleticism is what will be coveted by the Raiders.

The Skinny:BWW is an interesting story, in only one season of varsity HS football BWW was able to land a UConn scholarship by displaying excellent athleticism while playing both offense and defense. After red shirting his freshman year at UConn, BWW eventually became the cornerstone of the secondary and a defensive captain. Although, BWW has questionable durability he does possess the Green Bay-esque size/speed ratio that they would typically target during McKenzies tenure.

If the Raiders go BPA McKenzie could very well decide to draft a developmental project for a depleted secondary that could potential reap an exponential return. Let me make a comparison between BWW and a former developmental project in DVD. Both DVD and BWW had little experience to go with an abundance of athleticism. The difference is that BWW became a 2 years starter and a team leader albeit at a much less recognized school. DVD never had sole possession of a starting position at an elite school. Getting ON the field is what is most important for a player to develop awareness. BWW is physical and has an excellent size/speed ratio while DVD has a maxed out sprinters frame. Lastly, BWW actually has film (although not all of it good) while DVD never accumulated enough reps in college to make a highlight reel.

Stock Analysis: Falling
While BWW possesses excellent size/speed ratio and prototypical NFL CB size he has questionable durability. If BWW isnt healthy enough to perform at the NFL combine he very well might go UDFA.

Quote:

Former NFL scout Russ Lande believes that Connecticut senior Blidi Wreh-Wilson is the third best draft-eligible CB prospect heading into the 2012 season. Lande does admit that Wreh-Wilson has to prove he can stay healthy throughout an entire season after missing half of last year with a knee injury. "With excellent height, the speed to stay with receivers on deep routes and ball skills, he has the tools to be a top starter in the NFL," Lande explained. Many taller corners struggle with quicker receivers, but Wreh-Wilson does well to flip his hips and stay in his opposition's hip pocket. Aug 26 - 11:42 AM Source: Sporting News

The Skinny: Mitchell is a liability in coverage in addition to being essentially a non-factor except on special teams and blitzing. As the Raiders work to improve the depth of secondary Mitchell could very well be playing his last season in Oakland. Phillip Thomas, who has led college football in interceptions for much of the season, could replace Mitchell at backup SS. Obviously Phillip has ball skills and awareness both of which are desperately needed in the secondary.

Stock Analysis: Unclear
18 months removed from a serious injury where Phillips broke his fibula, dislocated his ankle and tore an ankle ligament during a non-contact drill imvho much of his draft stock will be based on his combine performance. If Phillips can break a 4.5 40 his stock could experience a meteoric rise.

The Skinny: Sorensen could be BPA at this point. At this point QB isnt a pressing need, however as the Raider continue to solidify the foundation of the team through the trenches at some point Sorensen could be a transition QB for a season when the Raiders finally do make the transition away from Palmer.

This bruising runner left Iowa amid allegations of sexual assault that were later dropped. Coker cited a lack of support from the university as the catalyst for his transfer request as well as a desire to play closer to home. One season at Stoney Brook and Im guessing Coker will throw his name in the hat for the NFL draft. Iowa basically runs a prostyle WCO so Coker could come in as the CoP in Oakland. It should noted Coker does have a fumbling problem.

Kennard has been the victim of misfortune. In 2011, Kennard under performed as he played out of position at MLB. This season Kennard seemed primed to break out as he was switched back to his more natural position of DE when he tore a pectoral muscle in the weightroom. Having an unspectacular collegiate resume, Kennard could very likely go undrafted in 2013.

 Sean Hooey l OT l Cincinnati l ht: 68 l wt: 298lbs l 40: 5.29

Hooey is an athletic developmental OT with great size whose progression has been setback with nagging injuries. While possessing great potential, Hooeys durability is nil. Perhaps a season in an NFL weight program can increase his strength and flexibility.

For the first time in a long time, I can say I don't care about re-signing any of our free agents. I really don't. Let whoever walk, this team is in flux and I am indifferent to any of those free agents staying or leaving. Even Huff, Seymour, Kelly, McClain. I like the future on offense at the skill positions but the defense needs totally rebuilt.

For the first time in a long time, I can say I don't care about re-signing any of our free agents. I really don't. Let whoever walk, this team is in flux and I am indifferent to any of those free agents staying or leaving. Even Huff, Seymour, Kelly, McClain. I like the future on offense at the skill positions but the defense needs totally rebuilt.

The only one I really want back is Bryant. I think he can be a real asset. I would like Shaggy back, but not as 1st choice RE. He is a LE and probably wouldn't beat Houston out if it came down to it. I would be happy if he signed far a reasonable salary and was a rotation player. Similarly, I would take Wheeler, but not for a premium. Yes he has been one of, if not the only player to perform on D this season but he isn't someone you would want to pay over the odds for.

I actually quite like the mock. I am in no rush to get all of the team needs (which are plentiful) met in one off-season. I would love a pass-rusher and a no. 1 CB, but if they aren't there when we pick, I would be happy to stock up on players that will immediately upgrade what we have and wait 'til next year or beyond to fill the other gaps. As it stands we have needs all over and a 1st round OT and 3rd round OG are almost certainly going to improve the roster.

You have to hope that Mckenzie is looking beyond this draft when it comes to bringing in players. I would expect that he is evaluating next year's crop and looking at whether there is a better batch of a particular position. If next year's pass rush prospects are better than this year, surely it would be better to wait and fill other needs in the interim. He's in it for the long haul and has gotta be thinking long term.

I actually quite like the mock. I am in no rush to get all of the team needs (which are plentiful) met in one off-season. I would love a pass-rusher and a no. 1 CB, but if they aren't there when we pick, I would be happy to stock up on players that will immediately upgrade what we have and wait 'til next year or beyond to fill the other gaps. As it stands we have needs all over and a 1st round OT and 3rd round OG are almost certainly going to improve the roster.

You have to hope that Mckenzie is looking beyond this draft when it comes to bringing in players. I would expect that he is evaluating next year's crop and looking at whether there is a better batch of a particular position. If next year's pass rush prospects are better than this year, surely it would be better to wait and fill other needs in the interim. He's in it for the long haul and has gotta be thinking long term.

You pretty much nailed it. I really think that Joeckell and Lewan are really special and both have extensive experience at ZBS but can play in either system. I can't see McKenzie passing on what is "considered" a can't miss (we've heard that before) for a RT. Regardless of how special the RT there's a reason he's a RT and you don't pass on a LT for a RT especially when your current LT is just solid and has experience on the right.

I'm pretty high on Jackson and the Raiders are REALLY struggling at LG. If the Raiders pass on Jackson they'd be looking at similar prospects to So. Carolina's Devin Taylor, who is a solid pass rusher but doesn't strike me as having unexpected upside. Taylor would be a value draft pick similar to Shaughnessy with similar career production.

Q: Upgrade Carlisle or draft a DE with similar production and upside to Houston & Shuaghnessy?_________________

Nodisrespect wrote:

(on building inside out) teams without highly draft DT's make the playoffs and win the superbowl regularly.

Bonez wrote:

Teams that win Superbowls and make the playoffs aren't picking in the Top 5, clearly

Not a huge fan of going OT with our first and OG with our second. I know our line needs help but I feel like atleast one lfe those picks needs to be used on a DE/DT/ or CB.

Really like Kennerd, he was way underutilized at SC. I LOVE BWW and Thomas in 5 and 6 although I think Thomas might be one before them.

Studying historical trends right out of the Sabermetric bible McKenzie has always drafted his CBs late who are approx 5'11" 190lbs. He won't take Milliner in the 1st. However, Clinkscales, who is the new Dir. of Player Personnel, ran the draft for Tannenbaum and is credited with drafting D'Brick, Mangold, Revis & Harris. On the contrary, Clink also drafted mega-bust Gholston and traded up to draft Sanchez, picks that are largely credited with him losing favor in the organization.

It should be noted in 2006 coming off a 4-12 Clink drafted back to back OL, D'Brick & Mangold. Are the Raiders looking at back-to-back OL draftees deja vu?_________________

Nodisrespect wrote:

(on building inside out) teams without highly draft DT's make the playoffs and win the superbowl regularly.

Bonez wrote:

Teams that win Superbowls and make the playoffs aren't picking in the Top 5, clearly

id take jake over the ot from mich, jake is more natural and battle tested imo

i know why you want the OG but I think we can get better value there

dont really know enough about the other guys but they fill holes.

if cp doesnt take a pay cut i cant see him coming back

I've watched plenty of film on Joeckell & Lewan. They are both beasts. You don't pass on a beast at LT for a RT. You just don't want to flip Veldheer over to the right.

Gabe is nice, man, very adept at cut blocking. mayock would call him "a dancing bear". I implore you to check him out.

Part of the reason I post these is to get you to check out these prospects to get your feedback. Who has better value in the 3rd. maybe you will turn me on to someone I had no idea was out there. Please don't suggest Ziggy. He is not going as high as some here think.

Of course CP will restructure. I would suggest the FO is enamored with him. Sometimes you ruin a good conversation/debate with your bias._________________

Nodisrespect wrote:

(on building inside out) teams without highly draft DT's make the playoffs and win the superbowl regularly.

Bonez wrote:

Teams that win Superbowls and make the playoffs aren't picking in the Top 5, clearly

id take jake over the ot from mich, jake is more natural and battle tested imo

i know why you want the OG but I think we can get better value there

dont really know enough about the other guys but they fill holes.

if cp doesnt take a pay cut i cant see him coming back

I've watched plenty of film on Joeckell & Lewan. They are both beasts. You don't pass on a beast at LT for a RT. You just don't want to flip Veldheer over to the right.

Gabe is nice, man, very adept at cut blocking. mayock would call him "a dancing bear". I implore you to check him out.

Part of the reason I post these is to get you to check out these prospects to get your feedback. Who has better value in the 3rd. maybe you will turn me on to someone I had no idea was out there. Please don't suggest Ziggy. He is not going as high as some here think.

Of course CP will restructure. I would suggest the FO is enamored with him. Sometimes you ruin a good conversation/debate with your bias.

- i think when teams start working out guys jake will prove he can play rt or lt if needed and i think he will be the 2nd ot off the board behind joek

- im not on the ziggy fan waggon. if we dont trade down and go ot in the first and still dont have a 2nd id like the rb taylor out of stanford. if i had to go OG i really like Larry Warford from Kentucky he does everything well imo.

- its funny how you knock ziggy cause of his rawness but pick guys like the cb from uconn? ill have to do research on him.

-dont know a lot about cj but i like the te from ohio state. imo we dont need to draft a te. i like our current te core

- bias? you guys are way to sensitive. ive been on board saying i wouldnt mind cp staying another year or 2 and i dont want to draft a qb. you mentioned cp in the off season section and i just gave my two cents. I know im in the minority but i dont think he is worth 16 mil. just like i dont think rich, dmac, beisel and tko are worth the money they are getting_________________

- i think when teams start working out guys jake will prove he can play rt or lt if needed and i think he will be the 2nd ot off the board behind joek
Have you watched Lewan? Seriously, with his Michigan pedigree he will give Joeckell run for his money on being the 1st OT off the board. Lewan is the real deal.
- im not on the ziggy fan waggon. if we dont trade down and go ot in the first and still dont have a 2nd id like the rb taylor out of stanford. if i had to go OG i really like Larry Warford from Kentucky he does everything well imo.
Warford is going high 2nd. The Raiders have no chance at him logistically. I concur on Stepfan Taylor. An excellent one-cut RB who the Raiders also have no chance at drafting unless they reach.
- its funny how you knock ziggy cause of his rawness but pick guys like the cb from uconn? ill have to do research on him.
I have a few mid to late rd CBs that I am really high on. Purdue's Josh Johnson & Illinois Hawthorne. They fit the profile of what McKenzie would draft late.
- bias? you guys are way to sensitive. ive been on board saying i wouldnt mind cp staying another year or 2 and i dont want to draft a qb. you mentioned cp in the off season section and i just gave my two cents. I know im in the minority but i dont think he is worth 16 mil. just like i dont think rich, dmac, beisel and tko are worth the money they are getting

_________________

Nodisrespect wrote:

(on building inside out) teams without highly draft DT's make the playoffs and win the superbowl regularly.

Bonez wrote:

Teams that win Superbowls and make the playoffs aren't picking in the Top 5, clearly